Mother's Day and What it Means to Me

Growing up in Russia my family always tried to make Mother's Day a big celebration not only for my mom, but for every woman in our big extended family.  In Russia we celebrated Woman's Day on 8th March every year and here in US this day on the second weekend in May - which also is my mom birthday this year. ...how coincident :) 
So, this is a post for her and my deepest love, appreciation and admiration to this special woman in my life! We have such a special bond - I think it's because we 've been thought so much together over the years.

Happy B-Day my first friend, my best friend, and my forever friend! 

Regardless if your mom is living or not, celebrate tomorrow! Let the memories flood you with her love and laughter. I'm wishing all the Mommys of the world a very Happy Mother's Day!!!!

xx, 

Lana

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Traveling Abroad Tips

Traveling abroad can be one of the most amazing experiences to add to your life’s resume, but in order to make the most out of what can be a most life-changing experience, attention to details and pre-planning must take place.

With that said, before even hopping on the plane or train, let’s take a look at all that needs to be tended to before you walk out the door:

Currency is a new app that beautifully and simply helps you make quick currency conversions while you’re traveling. I love this! It’s a great way to avoid the stress of international purchases. Or is that just me that gets totally stressed out when checking out in a foreign language with foreign currency? 

Here’s a little video that shows more about it:  http://vimeo.com/63844761

Do you use Currency already? Or maybe you’re just a whiz at quickly calculating exchange rates. :) Do you have any other favorite apps for traveling? I love new Google Maps!

Valid Passport – make sure your passport is current (US passports typically expire every 10 years – renewal currently is $115) or if you don’t have a passport make sure to apply for one six months in advance (often turn around is 2-3 months, but don’t take the risk). Also, if you're passport is set to expire in six months, be sure to have it renewed before traveling as some countries will not allow you to board if this is the case. Also, to travel some countries like to Russia you must have a visa! You need to apply for it! ( if you need more information about how/where/and what please don't hesitate to ask me).

Contact Your Bank & Credit Card Company 

• Based on which cards you will be using, call that institution and let them know you will be traveling (when and where) so that they don’t report your card stolen when a purchase pops up for tickets to see a ballet in the theater "Bolshoi" in Moscow for example:)
• Ask about all possible fees (ATM, general card use, etc) so that you can calculate that into your budget and plan how many withdrawals you will want to make. 
•  Choose what works best for you!

What pre-planning musts would you add to the list? 

Please, do share....xx, Lana

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